Whether it is your first time purchasing a house, or perhaps even building one, you are probably really looking forward to a place you can call your own. In most cases, now it will be up to you to decide what color to paint the interior and exterior, what type of architecture to display (whether you are building or remodeling), and best of all—how you want to put your own personal stamp of style on your new residence. For most of us, this is undeniably a time of great exhilaration. And whether you stay for two years or twenty—you may feel just as exhilarated upon moving out!
All Potential Buyers Should Have the Facts
The average homeowner will buy and sell more than once in his or her lifetime, and usually due to growing pains, relocation for a job, or perhaps downsizing in retirement. And while it is exciting, both buying and selling can be stressful too if you are worried about time constraints, coordinating finances, and figuring out the timing for a big move. The last thing a buyer wants is to move in and then discover a handful of problems—or perhaps a defect that no one knew about previously. Because of the issues that arise from such complications, many states—including California—require home sellers to fill out standard disclosure forms. These should be presented to potential buyers before closing, allowing them to make as educated a purchase as possible. They may walk away with far more information than they may have considered asking too.
Be Prepared to Disclose Everything About Your Home—And Neighborhood
As the current homeowner and home seller, you are required to disclose all information about appliances and their working order. This includes electronics like security systems, smoke detectors, fire alarms, and similar devices. All the major systems and components of the house are expected to be in good working order and if they are not, there is plenty of room to explain what’s wrong. You must also disclose any issues with walls, fences, doors, windows, the foundation, driveway, and more. Along with that is a list asking for any concerns regarding issues such as environmental hazards, disputes over easements, soil or drainage issues, and more.
You are even expected to disclose neighborhood noise problems or nuisances, as in that crazy neighbor—or their nonstop barking dog. No one wants any of these issues to come back to bite them later, so it is best to be completely up front with all real-estate agents involved, as well as potential buyers. When you lock up and say goodbye to your house for the last time, you will want to do so with peace of mind.
Contact Us for Help
If you have questions about a legal issue regarding real estate, please call Shane Coons now at 949-333-0900 or email us at Shane.Coons@seclawoffices.com. We will be glad to meet with you to review your case and explain your legal options. Our office is here to help!